Car Review: 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek

THE 2013 SUBARU XV CROSSTREK REVIEW

Summary Review by Tess: A Refreshingly New Kind of Crossover

The 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek is a new entry in the Subaru SUV lineup. This compact crossover is scheduled for release in fall 2012 and is poised to compete directly with the Nissan Juke and the Mini Cooper Countryman. Subaru is positioning the Crosstrek as a green-friendly entry due to its high fuel economy and status as a Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle. The Crosstrek further differentiates itself from its competition with added interior space and standard all-wheel drive, making it one of the most versatile and functional vehicles in what is admittedly a rather limited field of competitors.

Under the hood
The 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek features a 2.0-liter flat four-cylinder engine that produces 148 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. All-wheel drive is standard, and over eight inches of ground clearance gives the Crosstrek an edge in off-road expeditions as well. The XV Crosstrek is available with a five-speed manual or a continuously variable-speed automatic transmission; the latter is preferable, as it delivers 25 miles to the gallon in the city and 33 miles per gallon on the highway. (See estimated annual fuel costs for the XV Crosstrek). Air bags and antilock brakes are among the safety features standard on the Subaru XV Crosstrek.

Inside the cabin
The 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek will be available in two trim levels. Subaru has not yet released full details on the standard equipment list, but initial reports indicate that the base Premium trim level will include cloth upholstery, air conditioning, a CD sound system with Bluetooth, USB, and iPod connectivity and fog lights; the five-speed manual transmission is standard on the Premium models.

Upgrading to the Limited adds automatic climate control, a rearview camera for backing and parking, HD radio and iTunes compatibility, and the advanced continuously variable-speed automatic transmission for higher fuel economy. Options include the all-weather package with heated outside mirrors and front seats and an automatic de-icer for the windshield wipers.

(Check out the various color options for the XV Crosstrek).

On the road
The Subaru XV Crosstrek delivers solid performance on a wide range of terrains. Its low center of gravity ensures that it hugs the road and maintains greater stability during cornering than some of its competitors. However, it lacks the pick-up and power that could elevate it further above the common run of compact crossover SUVs.

Conclusions
Stylish and sensible, the 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek is a welcome addition to the compact crossover SUV segment.

Details:
Engine: 2.0-liter flat four-cylinder
Horsepower & Torque: 148 hp/145 lb-ft
Transmission: AWD five-speed manual or continuously variable-speed automatic
Fuel Economy: 25/33
Base MSRP: $22,745 (destination fee added in)

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